Practicing scientists apply inquiry skills to problem solving. These skills include the ability to compare and contrast scientific theories; use direct and indirect observations; identify questions and concepts to guide a scientific investigation; formulate and revise explanations and using logic and evidence, recognize and analyze alternative explanations and models; explain the importance of accuracy and precision in making valid measurements; examine the status of existing theories; evaluate experimental information for relevance and adherence to science processes; judge that conclusions are consistent and logical with experimental conditions; interpret of experimental research to predict new information, propose additional questions, or advance a solution; and communicate and defend a scientific argument.
Physics Project
Choose one of the following 4 options. Follow the link for project details and assessment rubric. Your work should be posted on the wiki page titled "Physics Projects" or submitted via hand in robot by June 6th, 2012.
In this investigation you will use Legos and the solar panel to design a solar powered car. The car will convert light energy to electrical energy (photoelectric effect) and then electrical energy to mechanical energy. An analysis of class designs will help us relate energy transfer to design characteristics.
Step 1: Design a solar powered car using the Lego pieces, solar panel, and motor. Record the following design choices for your finished design:
Number of wheels: Number of solar panels: Size of wheels (diameter): Number of motors: Mass of vehicle: Angle of solar panel (relative to the ground): Power design (gears, pulley, wheels directly connected to motor):
Step 2: Test your car with the light source. Final tests will be conducted outside in the sunshine. Record the maximum velocity of the car.
v=d/t Step 3: Determine the Kinetic Energy of your vehicle in Joules.
KE = ½ mv2 Step 4: Take a picture or video of your design.
Step 5: Use imovie, Comic Life comic, or other presentation software to share the results of your work. Be sure to include evidence of each of steps 1-5 in your report. Submit one copy for your group through the hand-in robot. Be sure to include each group members' name on the report.
Lab 17 – Circuit Designer
Objective: To design, construct and test electric circuits with elements in series and in parallel.
In this lab assignment you will work with your group to design a safety cage and bumper to protect an egg. A force plate will record data on the impact force and time. High speed video analysis will also be used to analyze the collision. This data will be used together to determine the impulse which changes the egg's momentum, and to determine the effectiveness of different designs.
After each group has tested their design, the high speed video, force plate graph, and data will be uploaded to the wiki page titled "Crash Time". Each group will analyze the results of all groups to determine the most effective designs. Each individual student is then required to provide an analysis of class results submitted through the googleform linked below.
Design: Design your safety cage and bumper using only the materials provided. Write a short design rationale (how and why you chose your design) and add this to the wiki.
Test Data: The following data to be uploaded to the class wiki page titled "Crash Time".
Force vs. Time graph from Logger Pro (screenshot image)
High speed video clip of impact
Before and after photograph of your design.
Values for maximum force, time, and an estimated value for impulse (based on your estimate of average force).
Report on whether the egg survived the impact.
Analysis: After each group has uploaded their design rationale and crash data to the wiki, each group should review the data and determine which design was most successful. Answer the analysis questions on the googleform linked below:
Lab 15 - The Great Egg Drop Challenge The relationship between momentum, force, and impulse
Objective: You are a team of engineers hired by an Egg Farm. Your task is to design a protective shipping container for a single egg.
Guidelines: The most effective package protects the egg from breaking, but has very little mass. The egg must be packaged so that it can be removed for inspection after testing. You may only use the materials given. A cracked egg is considered broken.
Materials: 4 folders, tape ( 1.0 m), 6 straws, 2 sheets of paper, 1 meter of string, 1 cup. You are not required to use all the materials given.
Tests: The following tests will be conducted to determine the effectiveness of the packaging. Successfully completing the test will earn points as shown. Each test can only be performed once. You will decide which tests you wish to perform and in which order you will perform them. 1. drop from 1m (1 point) 2. drop from 2 m (2 points) 3. drop from 3 m (3 points) 4. drop from 4 m (4 points) 5. drop from 5 m (5 points) 6. catapult test (8 points) 7. submersion test – under water for 10 seconds (6 points) 8. load test – add bricks to top of box (2 points per brick - up to 5 bricks)
Score: The effectiveness of your packaging will be determined by the following scoring: add points for each test successfully completed and subtract 1 point for each 0.05 kg of mass in the packaging without egg. Divide the mass of your package by 0.05 in order to determine the mass points.
Design Rationale:
Analysis: 1. Explain the success or failure of your design (be sure to discuss impulse, momentum, and force in your analysis)
2. How does this activity help you understand impulse and momentum. What are the practical applications of this understanding?
Lab 14 - Swing Ride
In this lab assignment your group will design a rotating amusement park ride (similar to a merri-go-round, the gravitron, or flying swings). Your rotating ride will be constructed on a disk which will be placed on a rotating turntable.
1. Using the materials provided, design a ride that will accommodate at least two passengers of different mass.
2. Once your design is complete, complete the table below in your lab journal. You will need to determine the following for your ride (Show your work in your lab journal).
ride name
mass of passengers in kg
Period of rotation in seconds
angular velocity of passengers (rotations per second)
linear velocity of passengers (m/s)
weight of passengers (force of gravity x mass)
centripetal acceleration of each passenger (m/s/s)
centripetal force acting on each passenger (Newtons - this force is acting on the passenger and pointing in to the center of rotation).
Data and Calculations Table
Passenger(name)
Mass (kg)
Period (seconds - time it takes to go around once)
Angular Velocity of Passenger (in rotations per second)
Radius (meters - from the passenger to the axis of rotation when the ride is moving)
Linear Velocity of Passenger ( in meters/second)
Weight of Passenger ( in Newtons)
Centripetal Acceleration of Passenger ( in m/s/s)
Centripetal Force of Passenger (in Newtons)
Passenger
1
Passenger
2
3. Create a short video advertisement to showcase your ride. Your video should explain the role of angular velocity, linear velocity, centripetal force, and inertia on your ride from the perspective of your passengers. Include the values from your data and calculations table in your video.
Assessment: Hand in your finished video (or report) using the hand-in robot. To be proficient, your group video or lab report, or journal must include the following:
A name for your ride.
Video or images of your rotating amusement park ride in action.
The table above completed for two passengers.
Angular velocity, linear velocity, passenger weight, centripetal acceleration, and centripetal force for at least one passenger.
The names of each group member
Advanced: Test your ride at two different rotational velocities, and create a second data table showing your data and calculations for the two passengers at a different rotational velocity. Compare the values in your video report.
Hooke’s Law and using Excel to determine the line of best fit.
Objective:To determine the mass of Mr. Potato Head using a spring and 5 masses.
Materials: Spring, ring stand, unknown mass, 5 different masses, Excel, Mister Potato Head of mystery mass.
Background: When a weight is hung on a spring or elastic material, a force (gravity) acts on it. The stretch (or compression) is directly proportional to the applied force. This relationship is known as Hooke’s Law, named after British physicist Robert Hooke. The proportionality constant (slope) which relates the stretching distance (x) to the weight of the object (Fg) is known as the spring constant (k), and is unique to the elastic material.
Fg = k x
Procedure: 1. Suspend the test spring from the ring stand 2. Add a test mass of known weight to the spring 3. Measure stretching distance x. This should not include the length of the spring, just the length of the spring’s stretch (x).
Data Table – To be recorded in your journal.
Trial #
1
2
3
4
5
6
Mass (kg)
0 kg
Stretch (x)
0 cm
4. Repeat with four additional known weights 5. Graph mass vs. x in excel, and determine the equation of the line. Be sure to include the point (0,0) in your source data, and the linear trend line on your graph. Each group member should create their own graph in Excel and submit their graph using the hand in robot. The graph should contain the following:
A title
Labeled axes with distance (meters) on the x axis and mass (kg) on the y axis
6 data points plotted (including the point (0,0)
A linear trend line and the equation of the line showing the relationship between distance and mass (the slope of this line is the value of the spring constant k)
6. Use your equation and your spring to determine the weight of Mr. Potato Head 7. Submit your lab group's solution (one per group) to the googleform: Googleform
Class challenge - can the class average value be determined within 5% of the true mass value?
Lab 12 - Lego Energy Lab
In this lab assignment you will design a lego vehicle that will allow you to study kinetic energy, potential energy and efficiency. You can assume that your car is a rigid, non-rotating body (even though it has wheels). You will also apply your understanding of forces, acceleration, and velocity to describe the motion of your design.
Step 1 Design a lego car that will move in a straight line when released on an inclined plane (ramp).
Step 2 Determine the gravitational potential energy of the car when it is released on the ramp in step 1. Record the mass and velocity of your design, and record the height from which the car was released on the ramp.
Step 3 Determine the velocity of the car at the bottom of the ramp. You may use the photogate to determine the instantaneous velocity at the bottom fo the ramp.
Step 4 Determine the efficiency of the car as it converts gravitational potential energy to kinetic energy. Efficiency can be determined by comparing the gravitational potential energy at the top of the ramp to the kinetic energy at the bottom of the ramp and should be expressed as a percent.
Step 5 Comment on the efficiency of your design. If energy is lost, where do you think it went?
Step 6 Share your results as a 1 page lab report (Comic Life, OmniGraffle, Word...). Submit your work via the hand in robot. Include the following in your report:
a picture of your vehicle
your data - including the mass of the car in kg, the height of the ramp in meters, the velocity of the car in m/s
your values for gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy and an explanation of how you reached these values
the efficiency of your vehicle in transferring potential energy to kinetic energy expressed as a percentage
the analysis of the efficiency of your design (step 5).
Advanced:
Two Options: a) Increase the starting height of your car to twice (or half) the original height. Determine the potential energy, kinetic energy, velocity, and efficiency for this starting height. Compare these values with your original values. How do they compare? Relate your findings to a practical example of energy conservation or efficiency. Include these values and your analysis with your lab report.
b) Conduct your investigation in an area that allows your car to continue to move at the bottom of the ramp until it stops. Collect the following additional data for your design: find the initial velocity at the bottom of the ramp, the final velocity, the displacement, and the time. From these measured values, calculate the acceleration of the car, and the magnitude of the force which causes the car to eventually stop. Include these values and an explanation of your work in your lab report.
Lab 11 - UM's Got Sole Objective: You have been hired to test the effectiveness of new shoe product soles. In order to test the effectiveness of the shoes, you have been asked to determine the coefficient of friction for the shoe on three distinct surfaces (for example: gymnasium floor, smooth linoleum floor, rough paved surface...).
Background: Friction is a force which opposes motion when two surfaces are in contact. It is due to irregularities in the two surfaces, and is always in the direction opposite to the motion (or potential motion). The size of the force depends on the two surfaces. The ratio of the friction force (in Newtons) and the normal force (in Newtons) is called the coefficient of friction. On a level surface, the normal force will be equal in magnitude to the force of gravity (weight). When pulled at a constant velocity, the pull force is equal in magnitude to the force of friction.
Materials: test shoe, force meter, three surfaces to test.
Procedure: Using the test shoe, attach a string so that the force meter can pull the shoe horizontally. On each surface, determine the average pull force necessary to keep the shoe moving at a constant speed. This pull force is equal to the force of friction resisting the pull. Measure the pull force for the shoe alone, and two additional trials with mass added to the shoe. Record your data in your lab journal. For each of the three surfaces you test, you should complete the data table below in your lab journal.
Your Results:Results from each group will be presented to the class in a slide show. Each group will create 1 slide and add it to the class slide show googledoc (linked here). Each group's slide should include the following.
a photograph of the shoe tested (and the material of the sole)
a description of the three surfaces tested
the coefficient of kinetic friction values for your shoe and each surface
a brief summary of what this value tells us about the shoe and its performance
In this lab assignment, you will voice dub over clips from Road Runner and Coyote cartoons. Look for at least one example of inertia, balanced forces, unbalanced forces, action and reaction forces, and acceleration. For each example you identify, explain the scene in the language of physics, determine if it is an accurate depiction, and explain why or why not. You should work in pairs on this assignment.
Requirements: Choose the video(s) from the teacher folder. You can edit your video using quick time player or iMovie. Your dubbed video should be 1 minute long (+30 seconds / -10 seconds). Save your video as a low bandwidth .mov file and upload it to the wiki page titled "RoadRunner Physics". To achieve an advanced score on this assignment, select a specific scene that presents an interesting physics question (one that you find perplexing), and design a lab experiment that could be used to answer this question (write the procedure only - don' t complete the lab).
Lab 9 - Bridge Design
Using spaghetti and mini-marshmallows, construct a bridge that will span 10 cm and be raised 10 cm over the base. Your bridge will be tested with a load of 100 g, 500 g and 1000 g (placed at the center of the bridge span).
The effectiveness of your bridge will be determined by the ratio of supported weight to bridge weight. Score = Weight Supported/Weight of Bridge.
Lab 8 - Biomechanics Lab
Step 1 Download a Motion Video. Choose one of the videos from the teacher folder. Open Logger Pro and import your video. Follow the "How To Guide" linked below.
The following information will be helpful as you create a scale for your analysis: High Jump Bar - 2.1 meters Diving Board - 1 meter above the water Free Throw Shots - Orange and White Post is 1 meter tall, Basket is 3.05 meters above the floor Backstroke Start - Starting block top is 0.75 meters above the water.
Step 2 Logger Pro Video Analysis. Create a point by point trajectory analysis with appropriate x and y scale values. Set the first data point to time = 0 and set the coordinate axes to 0 at the point of the ball's release. Take a screen shot of the projectile's trajectory, a screen shot of the data table, and a screen shot of the position time graphs.
Step 3 Determine the velocity and direction (angle) at any two points along the trajectory. Use the x and y velocity data projectile's motion to determine the resultant velocity and direction. Use right triangle geometry or graphical vector addition to find your answer. Show your work.
Step 4 Present Your Findings. Summarize your findings in the form of a slide show, comic life, omnigraffle, or word document. Include your screen shots, your vector diagram, and an explanation of the method you used to find the velocity and direction.
Your lab report should include the following:
a screen shot of the points showing the trajectory
a screen shot of the data table showing x and y position and velocity values
a screen shot of the x-t and y-t position time graphs
two vector diagrams showing the x component of velocity, the y component of velocity, the resultant velocity, and the direction of the velocity.
Advanced What are some possible benefits of this type of analysis to an athlete or coach? What are some other situations where video analysis like this might be useful? Include additional analysis and outside research with your lab report. Explain how bio-mechanics and physics can be helpful in improving athletic performance.
Lab 7 - Catch Me If You Can
Objective: To predict the landing point of a horizontally launched projectile.
Materials: Matchbox car, ramp with Hot Wheels track and accelerator, meter stick, stopwatch, photogate timer, can, 3x5 card.
Steps:
1. You should write a procedure in your lab journal for this investigation. Your procedure should explain each step in the process, and should be written in such a way that someone could easily duplicate your work. Your procedure should include the materials; how they will be used; and how you will reach the final answer. Review your procedure with Mr. B before you begin data collection.
2. Collect your data. You may collect any data, but you may not launch the projectile as part of your data collection.
3. Predict the position of the can.
4. Launch!
5. Record the results of your investigation in your lab journal. Were you successful? Why or why not. What has this investigation demonstrated about projectile motion?
Lab 6 - Water Bottle Rocket Challenge
The Challenge: Teams of 2-4 people will design a rocket that will remain in the air for at least 4 seconds when pressurized and launched. Each team will explore a specific design variable, and test at least three versions of their design. Baseline data will be collected by launching just the water bottle. Document your designs and launch attempts with observations (pictures, videos, descriptions) and with data (time in air, measured design changes). Each student will document work and present results to the class in the form of an Omni-graffle document, Keynote, PowerPoint, or short iMovie.
The Test Variables: Parachute Size, Parachute String Length, Parachute String #, Parachute Shape, Tailfin Design, NoseCone Design.
The Materials: Approved materials include plastic water bottle, file folders, string, masking tape, plastic bags.
The Schedule: Day 1 – Introduction, Groups, and Bottle Test, Day 2 – Design and Test, Day 3 – Redesign and Test, Day 4 –Redesign and Test, Day 5 - Lab Report
Part I Spiderman needs a web that will allow him to swing back and forth in exactly 4 seconds.
What variables will affect the period (T) (time for one back and forth swing) of a simple pendulum?
Each group will investigate one variable by designing a controlled experiment and create an Excel graph to represent their data. Each group should upload their graph to the Lab Wiki Page titled “Swing Time Graphs”. Your graph should show the trend line and equation.
Groups exploring the same variable will meet to share results. Choose a spokesperson to share the results with the class.
Part II Based on class results from part I, work in your group again to design a 4 second pendulum. Use Excel to predict the design specifications for your pendulum (length, mass, amplitude). When you have reached your answer, submit your group's recommendation to the googleform linked below. This form will ask you for:
the design specifications,
the method or equation(s) you used to reach your answer,
and a short summary of your findings (what determines the period of a pendulum).
Part III Class review of the results. As a group we will decide what to build and test.
Evaluation: Proficient: Participation in group work, upload group graph to wiki with trend line, present results to class, design a 4 second pendulum, submit design recommendation to googleform.
Advanced: Class design of 4 second pendulum within 10%.
Lab 4 – 9.8 m/s/s ... Prove It!
Can you prove that the acceleration of gravity at the Earth's surface is 9.8 m/s/s/?
Steps: To earn a proficient score, use your data to create an Excel graph. Use you graph to compare your experimental value for the acceleration of gravity to the accepted value of 9.8 m/s/s.
1. Choose two objects of different mass to videotape using the high speed camera. 2. Analyze the video for each object to complete a data table using Excel as shown below. 3. Use your data to create an x-y scatter graph of position versus time (with time on the x axis). Your graph should include at least 5 data points. 4. Find the equation that describes your graph trend, and compare this to the theoretical expression x = ½ g t2. How close is your value to 9.8 m/s/s?
5. Submit your graph using the hand in robot. Be sure your graph includes the following:
title
axes labels (with time on the x axis)
the equation to show the graph relationship (this will be a polynomial).
a comparison of your acceleration value as compared to 9.8 m/s/s. Your graph equation will have a value in before the squared term that should be close to 1/2 g or 4.9.
To earn an advanced score, combine your high speed video, graph, and analysis into a short video lab report.
Your video analysis you should include the following:
at least one of your high speed video clips
at least one of your position time graphs with title, axes labels, and trend
the acceleration of gravity determined from your data in m/s/s
a brief description of the objects you dropped and their mass values
a brief description of how you determined this value (text or voice over)
a brief comparison of this value to the accepted value of 9.8 m/s/s (text or voice over)
a brief summary of what your experiment has shown about falling objects of different mass (text or voice over)
Upload your video as a quicktime file to the wiki page titled "9.8 m/s/s Prove It!".
Resources: The data you collect from your high speed video should include position and time. If you need assistance creating an XY scatter graph in Excel, visit the document titled "creating an x-y graph in Excel" in the course materials). This graph trend is not linear, so you should choose polynomial as the trend type.
Sample Data Table
Sample Graph
Lab 3 - The Egg Catcher
The Challenge:
Design and construct a device that will safely stop an egg dropped on to it.
Criteria: Your design and completed device should be
-Re-useable
-Made with only the supplies provided
-Have a footprint smaller than 12" x 12"
-As light as possible (small weight)
-Able to stop the egg (no cracks, no breaking)
-Engineered for a range of heights
Score - Your are trying to get a high score with your design. Your score will be calculated as
equation
Note - Maximum drop height is 2 meters
Supplies:
4 folders
4 rubber bands
1 dixie cup
1 meter of paper towel
1 sandwich bag
1 paper plate
tape
scissors
Lab Report:
Create a 1 page lab report that includes the following (each group member):
A sketch or photograph of your egg catcher design
An explanation of your design rationale - what was the thinking behind the design? How well did it work? What would you do differently next time?
The results of your drop tests and your calculated score.
A calculation of the maximum velocity of the last safely caught egg.
to calculate the velocity you should first determine the falling time using the relationship x=1/2 gt^2. You can then solve for velocity using v=gt.
Lab 2Up and Away
1. Estimate the number of balloons used in the movie UP. Explain the measurements or assumptions you have made in reaching your estimate. Do you think the balloons could actually lift a house?
2. Use the balloons, rice and mass scale to collect data to show the relationship between mass and buoyancy (number of balloons). Collect data for 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 balloons.
3. Create a graph in Excel to show the relationship between number of balloons and mass. (need help with Excel? Visit the document titled "creating an x-y graph in Excel" in the course materials). A sample graph is shown below.
4. Estimate the mass of a house (you should do some research to support your estimation). Explain how you arrived at this number.
5. Use Excel to extrapolate your data to the mass of the house. How many balloons will it take according to your results.
6. Summarize your work in a 1 page report (Word, OmniGraffle, Comic Life). Each group member should submit their own report using the hand-in robot.
Include your estimate of the number of balloons needed based on the video clip and your estimate for the mass of a house (and explain how you found these)
the graph showing your data for mass vs. balloons
your prediction of how many balloons would actually be needed
a comparison of these two values. Include appropriate units and express numbers in scientific notation when appropriate.
Lab 1 - Ball Pit Fun Part I You have been challenged to a new ball pit attraction for Chuck E. Cheese. The ball pit will have the dimensions of this room (length and width) and will be filled with balls to a height of 1.5 meters. If each ball will cost $0.07, what will be the total cost of this project?
When you have reached an answer, enter your data in the googleform titled “Ball Pit Inc”. The form will ask you to enter the following information:
1. How many balls will this project require?
2. What is the cost of the project?
3. Write a short summary (< 50 words) to explain how you reached your answer.
4. What % error do you think is a reasonable estimate for your work?
1. With such a wide range of estimates, what would your next steps be in reaching an answer with greater confidence? What questions would you ask the other groups?
2.What types of error would have led to such a wide range of answers? Be specific. How much error should be acceptable to the customer?
3. Create a revised proposal based on your discussion and the class results. What strategy will you use to determine your answe?
Practicing scientists apply inquiry skills to problem solving. These skills include the ability to compare and contrast scientific theories; use direct and indirect observations; identify questions and concepts to guide a scientific investigation; formulate and revise explanations and using logic and evidence, recognize and analyze alternative explanations and models; explain the importance of accuracy and precision in making valid measurements; examine the status of existing theories; evaluate experimental information for relevance and adherence to science processes; judge that conclusions are consistent and logical with experimental conditions; interpret of experimental research to predict new information, propose additional questions, or advance a solution; and communicate and defend a scientific argument.
Physics Project
Choose one of the following 4 options. Follow the link for project details and assessment rubric. Your work should be posted on the wiki page titled "Physics Projects" or submitted via hand in robot by June 6th, 2012.Physics Project Choice 2 - Physics of Sports.doc
Physics Project Choice 3 - Physics Of Project.doc
Physics Project Choice 4 - Mission to Mars.doc
Physics Project Choice 1
Lab 18 - Solar Powered Car
In this investigation you will use Legos and the solar panel to design a solar powered car. The car will convert light energy to electrical energy (photoelectric effect) and then electrical energy to mechanical energy. An analysis of class designs will help us relate energy transfer to design characteristics.
Step 1: Design a solar powered car using the Lego pieces, solar panel, and motor. Record the following design choices for your finished design:
Number of wheels:
Number of solar panels:
Size of wheels (diameter):
Number of motors:
Mass of vehicle:
Angle of solar panel (relative to the ground):
Power design (gears, pulley, wheels directly connected to motor):
Step 2: Test your car with the light source. Final tests will be conducted outside in the sunshine. Record the maximum velocity of the car.
v=d/t
Step 3: Determine the Kinetic Energy of your vehicle in Joules.
KE = ½ mv2
Step 4: Take a picture or video of your design.
Step 5: Use imovie, Comic Life comic, or other presentation software to share the results of your work. Be sure to include evidence of each of steps 1-5 in your report. Submit one copy for your group through the hand-in robot. Be sure to include each group members' name on the report.
Lab 17 – Circuit Designer
Objective: To design, construct and test electric circuits with elements in series and in parallel.
Resources:
Need help with the concepts? http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/circuits/
Simulation:
http://phet.colorado.edu/en/simulation/circuit-construction-kit-dc
Lab Assignment:
11-12 lab 17 circuit designer.doc
Lab 16 - Crash Time
In this lab assignment you will work with your group to design a safety cage and bumper to protect an egg. A force plate will record data on the impact force and time. High speed video analysis will also be used to analyze the collision. This data will be used together to determine the impulse which changes the egg's momentum, and to determine the effectiveness of different designs.
After each group has tested their design, the high speed video, force plate graph, and data will be uploaded to the wiki page titled "Crash Time". Each group will analyze the results of all groups to determine the most effective designs. Each individual student is then required to provide an analysis of class results submitted through the googleform linked below.
Materials: 2 folders, tape (50 cm), 4 rubber bands, 1 egg
Design: Design your safety cage and bumper using only the materials provided. Write a short design rationale (how and why you chose your design) and add this to the wiki.
Test Data: The following data to be uploaded to the class wiki page titled "Crash Time".
Analysis: After each group has uploaded their design rationale and crash data to the wiki, each group should review the data and determine which design was most successful. Answer the analysis questions on the googleform linked below:
Google Form - Crash Time Analysis
Lab 15 - The Great Egg Drop ChallengeThe relationship between momentum, force, and impulse
Objective: You are a team of engineers hired by an Egg Farm. Your task is to design a protective shipping container for a single egg.
Guidelines: The most effective package protects the egg from breaking, but has very little mass. The egg must be packaged so that it can be removed for inspection after testing. You may only use the materials given. A cracked egg is considered broken.
Materials: 4 folders, tape ( 1.0 m), 6 straws, 2 sheets of paper, 1 meter of string, 1 cup. You are not required to use all the materials given.
Tests: The following tests will be conducted to determine the effectiveness of the packaging. Successfully completing the test will earn points as shown. Each test can only be performed once. You will decide which tests you wish to perform and in which order you will perform them.
1. drop from 1m (1 point)
2. drop from 2 m (2 points)
3. drop from 3 m (3 points)
4. drop from 4 m (4 points)
5. drop from 5 m (5 points)
6. catapult test (8 points)
7. submersion test – under water for 10 seconds (6 points)
8. load test – add bricks to top of box (2 points per brick - up to 5 bricks)
Score: The effectiveness of your packaging will be determined by the following scoring: add points for each test successfully completed and subtract 1 point for each 0.05 kg of mass in the packaging without egg. Divide the mass of your package by 0.05 in order to determine the mass points.
Design Rationale:
Analysis:
1. Explain the success or failure of your design (be sure to discuss impulse, momentum, and force in your analysis)
2. How does this activity help you understand impulse and momentum. What are the practical applications of this understanding?
Lab 14 - Swing Ride
In this lab assignment your group will design a rotating amusement park ride (similar to a merri-go-round, the gravitron, or flying swings). Your rotating ride will be constructed on a disk which will be placed on a rotating turntable.
1. Using the materials provided, design a ride that will accommodate at least two passengers of different mass.
2. Once your design is complete, complete the table below in your lab journal. You will need to determine the following for your ride (Show your work in your lab journal).Data and Calculations Table
1
2
3. Create a short video advertisement to showcase your ride. Your video should explain the role of angular velocity, linear velocity, centripetal force, and inertia on your ride from the perspective of your passengers. Include the values from your data and calculations table in your video.
Assessment:Hand in your finished video (or report) using the hand-in robot. To be proficient, your group video or lab report, or journal must include the following:
Advanced: Test your ride at two different rotational velocities, and create a second data table showing your data and calculations for the two passengers at a different rotational velocity. Compare the values in your video report.
Need Help? Class Notes: Circular Motion
Lab 13Mr.Potato Head Goes Bungee Jumping…
Hooke’s Law and using Excel to determine the line of best fit.
Objective: To determine the mass of Mr. Potato Head using a spring and 5 masses.Materials: Spring, ring stand, unknown mass, 5 different masses, Excel, Mister Potato Head of mystery mass.
Background: When a weight is hung on a spring or elastic material, a force (gravity) acts on it. The stretch (or compression) is directly proportional to the applied force. This relationship is known as Hooke’s Law, named after British physicist Robert Hooke. The proportionality constant (slope) which relates the stretching distance (x) to the weight of the object (Fg) is known as the spring constant (k), and is unique to the elastic material.
Fg = k x
Procedure:
1. Suspend the test spring from the ring stand
2. Add a test mass of known weight to the spring
3. Measure stretching distance x. This should not include the length of the spring, just the length of the spring’s stretch (x).
Data Table – To be recorded in your journal.
4. Repeat with four additional known weights
5. Graph mass vs. x in excel, and determine the equation of the line. Be sure to include the point (0,0) in your source data, and the linear trend line on your graph. Each group member should create their own graph in Excel and submit their graph using the hand in robot. The graph should contain the following:
- A title
- Labeled axes with distance (meters) on the x axis and mass (kg) on the y axis
- 6 data points plotted (including the point (0,0)
- A linear trend line and the equation of the line showing the relationship between distance and mass (the slope of this line is the value of the spring constant k)
6. Use your equation and your spring to determine the weight of Mr. Potato Head7. Submit your lab group's solution (one per group) to the googleform: Googleform
Class challenge - can the class average value be determined within 5% of the true mass value?
Lab 12 - Lego Energy Lab
In this lab assignment you will design a lego vehicle that will allow you to study kinetic energy, potential energy and efficiency. You can assume that your car is a rigid, non-rotating body (even though it has wheels). You will also apply your understanding of forces, acceleration, and velocity to describe the motion of your design.
Need some help?
work-energy theorem sample.pdf
class notes 2011 - Energy.doc
Step 1 Design a lego car that will move in a straight line when released on an inclined plane (ramp).
Step 2 Determine the gravitational potential energy of the car when it is released on the ramp in step 1.
Record the mass and velocity of your design, and record the height from which the car was released on the ramp.
Step 3 Determine the velocity of the car at the bottom of the ramp. You may use the photogate to determine the instantaneous velocity at the bottom fo the ramp.
Step 4 Determine the efficiency of the car as it converts gravitational potential energy to kinetic energy. Efficiency can be determined by comparing the gravitational potential energy at the top of the ramp to the kinetic energy at the bottom of the ramp and should be expressed as a percent.
Step 5 Comment on the efficiency of your design. If energy is lost, where do you think it went?
Step 6 Share your results as a 1 page lab report (Comic Life, OmniGraffle, Word...). Submit your work via the hand in robot. Include the following in your report:
Advanced:
Two Options:
a) Increase the starting height of your car to twice (or half) the original height. Determine the potential energy, kinetic energy, velocity, and efficiency for this starting height. Compare these values with your original values. How do they compare? Relate your findings to a practical example of energy conservation or efficiency. Include these values and your analysis with your lab report.
b) Conduct your investigation in an area that allows your car to continue to move at the bottom of the ramp until it stops. Collect the following additional data for your design: find the initial velocity at the bottom of the ramp, the final velocity, the displacement, and the time. From these measured values, calculate the acceleration of the car, and the magnitude of the force which causes the car to eventually stop. Include these values and an explanation of your work in your lab report.
Lab 11 - UM's Got Sole
Objective:
You have been hired to test the effectiveness of new shoe product soles. In order to test the effectiveness of the shoes, you have been asked to determine the coefficient of friction for the shoe on three distinct surfaces (for example: gymnasium floor, smooth linoleum floor, rough paved surface...).
Background:
Friction is a force which opposes motion when two surfaces are in contact. It is due to irregularities in the two surfaces, and is always in the direction opposite to the motion (or potential motion). The size of the force depends on the two surfaces. The ratio of the friction force (in Newtons) and the normal force (in Newtons) is called the coefficient of friction. On a level surface, the normal force will be equal in magnitude to the force of gravity (weight). When pulled at a constant velocity, the pull force is equal in magnitude to the force of friction.
Materials: test shoe, force meter, three surfaces to test.
Procedure:
Using the test shoe, attach a string so that the force meter can pull the shoe horizontally. On each surface, determine the average pull force necessary to keep the shoe moving at a constant speed. This pull force is equal to the force of friction resisting the pull. Measure the pull force for the shoe alone, and two additional trials with mass added to the shoe. Record your data in your lab journal. For each of the three surfaces you test, you should complete the data table below in your lab journal.
Your Results:Results from each group will be presented to the class in a slide show. Each group will create 1 slide and add it to the class slide show googledoc (linked here). Each group's slide should include the following.
Googledoc Slide Show
Lab 10 - Road Runner and Coyote Physics
Road Runner and Coyote cartoons contain great examples of motion, forces, and Newton's Laws. Some examples are accurate, and some are not.
Resources:
Class Notes Forces .doc
Newtons Laws Summary.pdf
In this lab assignment, you will voice dub over clips from Road Runner and Coyote cartoons. Look for at least one example of inertia, balanced forces, unbalanced forces, action and reaction forces, and acceleration. For each example you identify, explain the scene in the language of physics, determine if it is an accurate depiction, and explain why or why not. You should work in pairs on this assignment.
Requirements: Choose the video(s) from the teacher folder. You can edit your video using quick time player or iMovie. Your dubbed video should be 1 minute long (+30 seconds / -10 seconds). Save your video as a low bandwidth .mov file and upload it to the wiki page titled "RoadRunner Physics". To achieve an advanced score on this assignment, select a specific scene that presents an interesting physics question (one that you find perplexing), and design a lab experiment that could be used to answer this question (write the procedure only - don' t complete the lab).
Lab 9 - Bridge Design
Using spaghetti and mini-marshmallows, construct a bridge that will span 10 cm and be raised 10 cm over the base. Your bridge will be tested with a load of 100 g, 500 g and 1000 g (placed at the center of the bridge span).
The effectiveness of your bridge will be determined by the ratio of supported weight to bridge weight. Score = Weight Supported/Weight of Bridge.Lab 8 - Biomechanics Lab
Step 1
Download a Motion Video. Choose one of the videos from the teacher folder. Open Logger Pro and import your video. Follow the "How To Guide" linked below.
The following information will be helpful as you create a scale for your analysis:
High Jump Bar - 2.1 meters
Diving Board - 1 meter above the water
Free Throw Shots - Orange and White Post is 1 meter tall, Basket is 3.05 meters above the floor
Backstroke Start - Starting block top is 0.75 meters above the water.
How To Use Logger Pro for Motion Analysis.doc
Need some help with vectors? Class Notes - Two D Motion
Step 2
Logger Pro Video Analysis. Create a point by point trajectory analysis with appropriate x and y scale values. Set the first data point to time = 0 and set the coordinate axes to 0 at the point of the ball's release. Take a screen shot of the projectile's trajectory, a screen shot of the data table, and a screen shot of the position time graphs.
Step 3
Determine the velocity and direction (angle) at any two points along the trajectory. Use the x and y velocity data projectile's motion to determine the resultant velocity and direction. Use right triangle geometry or graphical vector addition to find your answer. Show your work.
Step 4
Present Your Findings. Summarize your findings in the form of a slide show, comic life, omnigraffle, or word document. Include your screen shots, your vector diagram, and an explanation of the method you used to find the velocity and direction.
Your lab report should include the following:
Advanced
What are some possible benefits of this type of analysis to an athlete or coach? What are some other situations where video analysis like this might be useful? Include additional analysis and outside research with your lab report. Explain how bio-mechanics and physics can be helpful in improving athletic performance.
Lab 7 - Catch Me If You Can
Objective: To predict the landing point of a horizontally launched projectile.
Materials: Matchbox car, ramp with Hot Wheels track and accelerator, meter stick, stopwatch, photogate timer, can, 3x5 card.
Steps:
1. You should write a procedure in your lab journal for this investigation. Your procedure should explain each step in the process, and should be written in such a way that someone could easily duplicate your work. Your procedure should include the materials; how they will be used; and how you will reach the final answer. Review your procedure with Mr. B before you begin data collection.
2. Collect your data. You may collect any data, but you may not launch the projectile as part of your data collection.
3. Predict the position of the can.
4. Launch!
5. Record the results of your investigation in your lab journal. Were you successful? Why or why not. What has this investigation demonstrated about projectile motion?
Lab 6 - Water Bottle Rocket Challenge
The Challenge: Teams of 2-4 people will design a rocket that will remain in the air for at least 4 seconds when pressurized and launched. Each team will explore a specific design variable, and test at least three versions of their design. Baseline data will be collected by launching just the water bottle. Document your designs and launch attempts with observations (pictures, videos, descriptions) and with data (time in air, measured design changes). Each student will document work and present results to the class in the form of an Omni-graffle document, Keynote, PowerPoint, or short iMovie.
The Test Variables: Parachute Size, Parachute String Length, Parachute String #, Parachute Shape, Tailfin Design, NoseCone Design.The Materials: Approved materials include plastic water bottle, file folders, string, masking tape, plastic bags.
The Schedule: Day 1 – Introduction, Groups, and Bottle Test, Day 2 – Design and Test, Day 3 – Redesign and Test, Day 4 –Redesign and Test, Day 5 - Lab Report
Your Groups' Proposal: Proposal Googleform
Evaluation Rubric:
Lab 5 - Swing TimePart I
Spiderman needs a web that will allow him to swing back and forth in exactly 4 seconds.
Part II
Based on class results from part I, work in your group again to design a 4 second pendulum. Use Excel to predict the design specifications for your pendulum (length, mass, amplitude). When you have reached your answer, submit your group's recommendation to the googleform linked below. This form will ask you for:
Part III
Class review of the results. As a group we will decide what to build and test.
swing time googleform
Evaluation:
Proficient: Participation in group work, upload group graph to wiki with trend line, present results to class, design a 4 second pendulum, submit design recommendation to googleform.
Advanced: Class design of 4 second pendulum within 10%.
Lab 4 – 9.8 m/s/s ... Prove It!
Can you prove that the acceleration of gravity at the Earth's surface is 9.8 m/s/s/?
Steps:
To earn a proficient score, use your data to create an Excel graph. Use you graph to compare your experimental value for the acceleration of gravity to the accepted value of 9.8 m/s/s.
1. Choose two objects of different mass to videotape using the high speed camera.
2. Analyze the video for each object to complete a data table using Excel as shown below.
3. Use your data to create an x-y scatter graph of position versus time (with time on the x axis). Your graph should include at least 5 data points.
4. Find the equation that describes your graph trend, and compare this to the theoretical expression x = ½ g t2. How close is your value to 9.8 m/s/s?
5. Submit your graph using the hand in robot. Be sure your graph includes the following:
To earn an advanced score, combine your high speed video, graph, and analysis into a short video lab report.
Your video analysis you should include the following:
Upload your video as a quicktime file to the wiki page titled "9.8 m/s/s Prove It!".
Resources:
The data you collect from your high speed video should include position and time. If you need assistance creating an XY scatter graph in Excel, visit the document titled "creating an x-y graph in Excel" in the course materials). This graph trend is not linear, so you should choose polynomial as the trend type.
Sample Data Table
Sample Graph
Lab 3 - The Egg Catcher
The Challenge:
Design and construct a device that will safely stop an egg dropped on to it.
Criteria:
Your design and completed device should be
-Re-useable
-Made with only the supplies provided
-Have a footprint smaller than 12" x 12"
-As light as possible (small weight)
-Able to stop the egg (no cracks, no breaking)
-Engineered for a range of heights
Score - Your are trying to get a high score with your design. Your score will be calculated as
Note - Maximum drop height is 2 meters
Supplies:
4 folders
4 rubber bands
1 dixie cup
1 meter of paper towel
1 sandwich bag
1 paper plate
tape
scissors
Lab Report:
Create a 1 page lab report that includes the following (each group member):to calculate the velocity you should first determine the falling time using the relationship x=1/2 gt^2. You can then solve for velocity using v=gt.
Lab 2Up and Away
1. Estimate the number of balloons used in the movie UP. Explain the measurements or assumptions you have made in reaching your estimate. Do you think the balloons could actually lift a house?
2. Use the balloons, rice and mass scale to collect data to show the relationship between mass and buoyancy (number of balloons). Collect data for 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 balloons.
3. Create a graph in Excel to show the relationship between number of balloons and mass. (need help with Excel? Visit the document titled "creating an x-y graph in Excel" in the course materials). A sample graph is shown below.
4. Estimate the mass of a house (you should do some research to support your estimation). Explain how you arrived at this number.
5. Use Excel to extrapolate your data to the mass of the house. How many balloons will it take according to your results.
6. Summarize your work in a 1 page report (Word, OmniGraffle, Comic Life). Each group member should submit their own report using the hand-in robot.
Lab 1 - Ball Pit Fun Part I
You have been challenged to a new ball pit attraction for Chuck E. Cheese. The ball pit will have the dimensions of this room (length and width) and will be filled with balls to a height of 1.5 meters. If each ball will cost $0.07, what will be the total cost of this project?
When you have reached an answer, enter your data in the googleform titled “Ball Pit Inc”. The form will ask you to enter the following information:
1. How many balls will this project require?
2. What is the cost of the project?
3. Write a short summary (< 50 words) to explain how you reached your answer.
4. What % error do you think is a reasonable estimate for your work?
Ball Pit Google Form
Lab 1 - Ball Pit Fun - Part II
Review the results from each group. Discuss the following questions and be prepared to share your answers with the class.
1. With such a wide range of estimates, what would your next steps be in reaching an answer with greater confidence? What questions would you ask the other groups?
2.What types of error would have led to such a wide range of answers? Be specific. How much error should be acceptable to the customer?
3. Create a revised proposal based on your discussion and the class results. What strategy will you use to determine your answe?